One week in Paris

Paris will always hold a special place in my heart, from the sidewalk cafés, to the art galleries and architecture that literally makes you gasp in wonder, there is much to love in the city of love.

We spent 5 days meandering along Parisian streets and seeing the best of what this city has to offer. As soon as we arrived I knew no measure of time would ever be enough and so made it my mission that we see as much as possible in a short amount of time here are some of my ‘must see’ tips-

The Eiffel Tower

It goes without saying that when in Paris you must visit the Eiffel Tower. Get there early as the lines can get very long especially in peak season, a ticket to the summit will set you back €17 but the views are well worth it. If your budget allows, I recommend booking dinner at one of the restaurants on the Tower. Great food and absolutely stunning views!

A Cruise along the Seine

Does it get any more romantic than a river cruise along the Seine? With many of the city’s famous landmarks dotted along the banks of the Seine, a river cruise offers a look at Paris and her landmarks from a different vantage point. There are loads of companies offering tours and whilst it’s beautiful at any time, the twilight tours have my vote with many famous landmarks lit at night producing remarkable views.

A day at Musee du Louvre

Yes you read that correctly, you need a full day to do this museum justice, if fact I could have stared at those ceilings for days on end! Paris is a city full of incredible museums and art galleries but it is the Louvre that is on most people’s ‘must see’ list and for good reason. It is the world’s largest museum and is housed in the Louvre Palace. Whilst da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is a highlight there is much more on offer with eight collections including everything from Egyptian Antiquities to Decorative Arts and everything in between. Open every day except Tuesdays admission is just €15.

Louvre Palace

Champs-Elysee

Touted as the most famous avenue in Paris and for that matter the world, the Champs-Elysee is bordered at one end by the Arc de Triomphe and at the other by the Grand Palais. Known for its theatres, cafes and high end boutiques a strolls along Champs-Elysee is a must do for any visitor.

Notre Dame de Paris

Not only is the beautiful cathedral a stunning testament to French Gothic architecture, entry to this famed building is free! That’s right you can visit the cathedral itself for free, if to want to climb the towers there is a small fee. Whilst we didn’t get a chance to do it I’m told a walk up the North Tower is well worth the fee offering amazing views and bringing you close to the famous gargoyles!

the impressive Notre Dame de Paris

Arc de Triomphe

At the western end of the Champs-Elysee stands one of Paris’ most famous monuments the Arc de Triomphe. Inaugurated in 1836, visitors can buy a ticket to go up to the viewing platform which offers an impressive panoramic view of the city below.

Tuileries

A stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries on a sunny day is a perfect way to round out a visit in Paris. Located next to the Louvre the Tuileries is an expansive public garden covering some 54 odd acres with ponds, gardens and sculpture. I recommend taking a picnic and enjoying the sunshine as you watch the world go by.